Heightened patrols by the Uganda People’s Defence Forces (UPDF) Marine Unit and other security agencies on Lake Albert have significantly curbed attacks on Ugandan fishermen by suspected militiamen from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), according to local leaders and residents in Kikuube District.
Since the patrols intensified in December 2025, no incidents have been reported on the lake as of March 2026.
Fishermen at various landing sites, including Sunzu, Sebigoro, Buhuka Parish, Senjojo, and Kaiso, say they now operate with greater peace of mind after years of raids where armed groups crossed into Ugandan waters, held fishermen at gunpoint, stole boats, engines, nets, hooks, and other gear, and fled back to the DRC.
John Opar, a fisherman at Sunzu Landing Site in Kyangwali Sub-county, told reporters; “No attacks have been reported since January.”
Gilbert Kyalisiima at Sebigoro Landing Site in Kabwoya Sub-county echoed this relief, while Reginald Ngamita, LCII Chairperson of Buhuka Parish, noted that attacks—once almost daily—have ceased, crediting the UPDF Marine Unit.
Kikuube District LCV Vice Chairperson Vincent Alpha Opio described the UPDF deployment as pivotal in protecting fishermen and restoring relative peace.
Kikuube Resident District Commissioner Godwin Angalia confirmed the gradual return of calm, stating patrols will continue, but urged fishermen to remain vigilant and report suspicious individuals.
Historical incidents illustrate the severity of the problem:
- November 2018: Seven Ugandan fishermen shot and killed near Kaiso Landing Site, Buseruka Sub-county, Hoima District.
- October 2019: Three Ugandan fishermen shot dead by suspected Lendu militiamen near Kaiso.
- March 2021: 16 fishermen abducted near Kaiso; four boats and engines stolen; released after $50 ransom each. Another raid days later stole 19 engines.
- July 2021: Three fishermen shot and injured near Senjojo Landing Site.
- November 2025: UPDF killed three suspected Congolese militiamen in a gun battle near Senjojo; three injured and arrested; five firearms recovered.
The attacks disrupted livelihoods, caused fear, injuries, abductions, and deaths among fishing communities reliant on Lake Albert, a shared resource with the DRC.
No specific militia group (e.g., ADF) was named in recent reports; suspects are generally described as Congolese militiamen, sometimes in military camouflage.
The intensified UPDF presence has deterred crossings and raids, with authorities emphasizing continued surveillance to maintain security.
